Activity
Conditions
Amenities
Hills Resort
Hills Resort is a public boat ramp on Priest Lake near Nordman, Idaho. This beginner-level spot offers kayaking, canoeing, paddleboarding. Amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Best visited in spring and summer and fall.
At a Glance
Water Body
Lake
Launch Type
Boat Ramp
Difficulty
Beginner
Activities
Kayaking, Canoeing, SUP, Kayak Fishing
Parking
Parking lot available at boat ramp facility
Cell Service
Good
Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
About This Location
Boat Ramp accessing Priest Lake near Nordman, Idaho. calm and sheltered conditions.
Hills Resort provides shoreline access to Priest Lake in Idaho, making it a solid choice for a day on the water.
Kayakers will find the waters here well-suited to touring and exploration. The waters here are approachable for canoes, making it a good option for family outings. Mountain waterways in the Rockies run cold and clear, fed by snowmelt and alpine runoff.
Conditions here tend to be calm and sheltered, making it suitable for paddlers of all skill levels. Plan your visit for March through November. Facilities include boat ramp and parking and dock.
At about 5 min from Nordman, Hills Resort is a practical choice for paddlers based in the Nordman area.
New to paddling? This is a great beginner spot.
Calm lake waters make Hills Resort ideal for first-timers. Make sure you have the right gear:
Paddling Tips
- •Keep an eye on the weather — afternoon winds can pick up quickly on open water.
- •Hug the shoreline for the most interesting scenery and easier paddling.
- •Bring polarized sunglasses to reduce glare and spot submerged obstacles.
- •If fishing, try the coves and points where fish tend to congregate.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I access Hills Resort?
- Hills Resort is a public boat ramp in Idaho. There is no entrance fee.
- What activities are available at Hills Resort?
- Hills Resort supports kayaking, canoeing, stand up paddleboarding, kayak fishing. The difficulty level is rated beginner, making it great for all skill levels.
- What amenities are at Hills Resort?
- On-site amenities include boat ramp, parking, dock. Parking: Parking lot available at boat ramp facility.
- When is the best time to visit Hills Resort?
- The best time to paddle at Hills Resort is during spring and summer and fall. March through November
- What are the water conditions at Hills Resort?
- Water conditions at Hills Resort include calm, sheltered.
- Is Hills Resort good for beginners?
- Yes, Hills Resort is rated beginner difficulty, making it an excellent choice for first-time paddlers and families. Calm, flat water suitable for first-time paddlers. No significant current or wave hazards expected.
Location data: USGS ScienceBase · Water conditions: USGS NWIS · Weather: National Weather Service · Coordinates: 48.5384, -116.9220
Quick Facts
- State
- Idaho
- Region
- Rocky Mountains
- Getting There
- ~5 min from Nordman
48.5384, -116.9220
Best Paddling in Idaho
Read our complete guide →
Paddler Reviews
Write a Review
Trip Reports
Paddle Routes from Here
No paddle routes from this location yet.
Be the first to create one!
More Paddling on Priest Lake
6 other launches on this water body

Outlet Marina
Idaho · 0.8 mi
Priest Lake Marina
Idaho · 1.7 mi
Outlet Marina
Idaho · 3.4 mi

Cavanaugh Bay Marina
Idaho · 4.0 mi
Cavanaugh Bay Marina
Idaho · 4.6 mi

Bishops Marina
Idaho · 4.6 mi
Nearby Paddling

Outlet Marina
Idaho · 0.8 mi
Priest Lake Marina
Idaho · 1.7 mi
Outlet Marina
Idaho · 3.4 mi

Cavanaugh Bay Marina
Idaho · 4.0 mi
Cavanaugh Bay Marina
Idaho · 4.6 mi

Bishops Marina
Idaho · 4.6 mi